Why you should read Kafka before you waste your life

Franz Kafka’s iconic image evokes bleak visions of bureaucracy, nightmarish transformations, and uncanny predictions of the Holocaust. However, the reality of his life diverges sharply from the mysterious, sickly figure often portrayed. Kafka was, in fact, a well-connected millionaire’s son who indulged in a vibrant social life, including relationships with women and visits to brothels. He held a prestigious state job, earning the equivalent of $90,000 today for a six-hour workday, and remained a loyal member of Prague’s German-speaking elite throughout his life, supported by a strong literary network. Many myths surround Kafka: that he was a neglected genius, lonely, trapped in a dead-end job, tormented by sexual fear, overly honest with women, and burdened by a domineering father. Additionally, his writing is often described as mysterious and opaque, leading readers into bizarre worlds. James Hawes aims to dismantle the critical barriers erected by scholars, biographers, and guides that have obscured Kafka's true persona and the significance of his work. He seeks to reveal the real man behind the myths and the profound impact of his literary contributions, challenging long-held perceptions without reservation.